pcguy2u

Have a coolant leak around the pan seal just under the timing chain cover (see red circle in photo - this is a stock photo. not the engine in question). No sign of coolant coming from anywhere above the red line.

Happens with the engine cold and stops leaking shortly after turning it off???

Appreciate any help here - thought I had seen most leaks, but now this....

Nick

Scottd

Check your water pump inlet. If there is a leak there, the water can drip and migrate down to the area you have shown. One way or another, its going to wind up being your water pump. (Either mount or hoses)

Revi

There's a weep hole in the bottom of the water pump. You may not be able to see it with the pulley in place. Most likely the pump is going bad.

hugie82

Also check the bolt holes on the front and the sides of the block where the power steering brackets and alt brackets bolt to. Some times those bolt holes will reach a water jacket and drip.

pcguy2u

Stranger yet, I hooked a pressure test at about 16 pounds and the coolant starts to drip almost immediately. Thought that I might be a bit more daring with the engine off - had checked all of the above and checked it all again just now and still can't find the source.


No heat, thermostat closed and standard pressure???

pcguy2u

Anyone think it could be a hairline crack in the block?

Might need to rearrange cars and put it up on the lift with the external pressure test - too many cars.

7T1vette

Dry that area off completely, then spray the areas in question with some "Baker's Secret" spray-on flour (used for pre-treating baking pans). Then, only apply 3-4 psi to the block. Have a bright light shining on the areas to be inspected and look for the initial leak area to darken from getting damp.

pcguy2u

^^^ Boy, you guys have all the tips - I'll add that one to my tool box.

Did find the problem though - had to remove the alternator (passenger side) and behind all the grease buildup (just bought this one). Sliding down behind the curved edge of the timing chain cover was a stream of coolant coming from the passenger side water pump gasket.

Thanks again,
Nick